Earth’s history is punctuated by volcanic events that stand out both in terms of their enormous size and their relatively short duration. Such events can cover regions the size of France with piles of lava flows a mile high or more. They are known to release large quantities of volcanic gases, with long-term consequences for the atmosphere, climate and ocean chemistry, and can even trigger mass extinctions of plant and animal species. This talk will explore the circumstances surrounding the emplacement of the Deccan Traps volcanic province (India), which coincided with the extinction of non-avian dinosaurs 66 million years ago.

The College of Arts and Sciences' Dean's Seminars are free and open to the Drexel community. Light refreshments will be served.